Search engine optimization professionals have probably heard of the term known as unscrupulous SEO techniques. Blackhat SEO embraces a collection of strategies used to boost a website's or page's ranking in search engine results, but through methods that violate the search engines' terms of service.

Basically, blackhat SEO is a rapid route that can get your site to the top of search engine rankings quickly. However, these strategies are typically seen as dishonorable, and search engines like Google may severely penalize sites found using them.

A popular blackhat technique is excessive keyword usage. This involves packing a webpage with keywords or numbers to game a site's ranking in Google search results. They might come across in a list, pile, out of context, or hidden in the code.

Establishing link farms is another common technique. Here, sites are tied together in a circular network to boost the rank of all the sites in the circle. However, if a page is linked to from numerous unrelated websites, it could also be penalized.

Cloaking is an especially deceptive blackhat method. This is when different content is presented to search engines than to users, basically redirecting users to separate pages apart from their knowledge.

Despite the harsh consequences, why do people use blackhat SEO? The evident answer is: for immediate results. These tactics give websites the appearance of relevance, boosting them up the search results quickly.

However, the advantage is fleeting. Search engines now incorporate advanced algorithms which identify these deceptive techniques. Once they're identified, penalties may include lower rankings or even being deleted entirely from the search index.

As a result, many websites are embracing white hat SEO strategies. These are approaches that aim to build a website's prominence in legitimate website ways. Some examples are creating quality content that provides valuable information to the reader, optimizing website tags, or creating a positive user experience.

So, while blackhat SEO may come across as a quick way to increase your site's visibility, it's a dangerous game to play. It's more advisable to direct attention on whitehat SEO strategies, which improve your website through legal means, thus providing sustainable success.